Englishman Kenelm Digby is probably the creator of the commercial wine bottle. In the 1630s, he manufactured wine bottles which had a tapered neck, a collar and a punt, the indentation at the bottom. Digby’s bottles were more durable than what was available. He made them in green or brown, which protected the contents from light and, in 1662, Parliament recognized his invention. There are about 10 different theories to explain the indentation, none of them cogent. At Seagram, I was taught the punt was designed to collect sediment, but I am unconvinced. Others include ease of holding the bottle to pour a glass, to ensure the bottle stands upright and so on. The best theory I’ve heard is that old bottles were blown by hand and the process left a divot in the bottom. But hands-down, the best expression comes from France and has special meaning to anyone who loves wine.
© 2024 John Oliver
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